European Journal of Adapted Physical Activity 17, 3 (2024) | DOI: 10.5507/euj.2023.010

The association between the constructs of social cognitive theory and physical activity in adults with disabilities: A meta-analysis

Byungmo Ku1, Willie Leung2
1 Department of Special Physical Education, College of Sports Science, Yong-In University, Kyung-Kido, South Korea
2 Health Sciences and Human Performance, College of Natural Health Sciences, University of Tampa, Tampa, USA

With the inconsistency regarding the association between the constructs of social cognitive theory (SCT) and physical activity (PA) in adults with disabilities, the purpose of the current study was twofold: a) to examine the association between constructs of SCT and PA in adults with disabilities using meta-analysis procedures, and b) to identify moderators for the association between the SCT constructs and PA among adults with disabilities. With predetermined inclusion criteria, a total of 15 studies were included in the current review. The pooled associations under the random-effect model between SCT variables and PA in adults with disabilities were calculated. Moderator analyses were also conducted with potential moderators, including types of SCT variables, different PA intensities, PA measurement types, disability types, and participants’ age. The overall exploratory effect size of SCT variables on PA in adults with disabilities was small under the random effects model (r = .26, 95% confidence interval = .23 - .29, p < .001). Moderator analysis indicated that SCT variables (Q(5)=25.86, p <.001), PA intensities (Q(2)=21.41, p <.001), and PA measure types (Q(1)=16.13, p <.001) were significant moderators. The SCT may be an appropriate framework to explain PA in adults with disabilities. The moderators should be considered when explaining their PA and developing PA interventions.

Keywords: behaviours; exercise; multiple sclerosis; rehabilitation; self-regulation; spinal cord injury; visual impairment

Received: November 18, 2022; Revised: November 6, 2023; Accepted: November 29, 2023; Published online: May 28, 2024  Show citation

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Ku, B., & Leung, W. (2024). The association between the constructs of social cognitive theory and physical activity in adults with disabilities: A meta-analysis. European Journal of Adapted Physical Activity, 17, Article 3. https://doi.org/10.5507/euj.2023.010
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